APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Even when the Summer Solstice brings the most daylight in a day, residents at an Appleton community center continue to fight darkness.
Residents of Touchmark on West Prospect recognized The Longest Day event Wednesday with activities that raise awareness and support for those living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.
The senior community has 34 residents living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias in memory care homes. Additionally, several of their spouses live in the community in either independent living or assisted living options.
“So often our caregivers feel that every day is a long day when caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s,” said Stephanie Buchanan, executive director at Touchmark on West Prospect. “By creating programs that emphasize social interaction, fun, and support, we help those with dementia live with dignity and purpose as well as reduce the burden of care for their loved ones.”
The event featured live entertainment, food trucks, games, live auctions, a caricature booth and more to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than six million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s and in 2022, caregivers of people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias provided an estimated 18 billion hours of unpaid care.
Alzheimer’s kills more than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined.
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